State Comptroller Kevin Lembo said a report issued today by the Auditors of
Public Accounts demonstrates the overdue demand for an accurate and independent
review of the hundreds of millions of dollars invested every year in economic
incentive programs.

Lembo, up against strong opposition over the years, including a veto by the
governor, fought for legislation - finally adopted last year - that now provides
for independent analysis by state auditors of state economic investment
programs. The Auditors' first report was issued today.

"Today's report finally gives the legislature independent and actionable
information so that Connecticut can make informed decisions about its economic
future. Connecticut provides hundreds of millions of dollars in economic
incentive programs to businesses every year with the hope that it will grow the
economy and create jobs - but has failed to independently and accurately analyze
which ones are working and which ones are not. For more than five years, up
against vetoes and fierce opposition, I fought for this stronger oversight to
ensure that scarce state resources are focused on only the most effective
economic development and job-growth programs. Connecticut can only realize its
great economic potential if it adopts best practices - beginning with an
accurate analysis of the success and failures of its economic development
programs."